Every September the sparkling bay of Cannes is transformed by the annual yachting festival. The show attracts an international audience who combine a few days enjoying the late summer sun and the sophistication of the Cote d’Azur, with the opportunity to attend one of the best ‘on the water’ shows in the Mediterranean and the first of the new season. It’s a magic formula. With the show split into the motor yacht section in the Vieux Port and the sailing section in Port Canto there is something for everyone. The yacht manufacturers are there in force and the show offers a unique opportunity to view and compare different models for those considering a purchase.
Early morning, the cafés are filled with brokers enjoying their coffee and freshly baked croissant whilst discussing the day’s deals, along with earnest looking couples studying brochures as they anticipate their dream of long term cruising. There is a sense of anticipation. As the show opens, prospective buyers rush in to secure early viewings on their preferred model, but there is so much choice and before the obligatory lunchtime rosé, they have already lined up another two or three visits for the afternoon.
At the end of an intense day of comparing and negotiating, Cannes has a lot to offer with numerous restaurants and bars both along La Croisette and in the picturesque old town of ‘Le Suquet’. Most yacht manufacturers host exclusive sunset cocktail events and the entire town is overflowing with like-minded visitors. The buzz is tangible. After all, yachting is nothing if not glamorous!
Eden Yachting are the exclusive dealers for Fountaine Pajot catamarans and Dufour yachts in the Middle East.